“Where Are They Now” – John Crotty

Beginning his second season as the Miami HEAT’s radio analyst on NewsRadio 610-WIOD, Crotty, hailing from the University of Virginia in ’91, has a good thing going.

“I certainly have the best of both worlds,” he said. “I am able to control where I live, while keeping my hand in the game and watching very good basketball.”

Crotty earned himself a seat alongside HEAT radio broadcaster Mike Inglis when predecessor Mike Fratello left Miami to take the head coach position with the Memphis Grizzlies last season. But for Crotty, landing a broadcast gig was a longtime coming.

Working as an intern in the HEAT’s broadcasting department at age 31, he had the unique opportunity to learn directly from one of the best. In order to create a sample reel to hand out as resumes, Crotty worked closely with Eric Reid, HEAT television play-by-play announcer, who has given the former HEAT player career advice along the way.

“He’s a bright guy with quite an interest in broadcasting,” said Reid, who has recently started his 18th season with the team. “He is extremely knowledgeable and has attacked this endeavor like he does with everything else – with his head and his heart.”

While he says he is still mastering the art of radio broadcast, Crotty continues to learn and study his craft.

“It is a completely different mindset than when you are a player. As a player, you are trying to win, always competing for a championship and trying to better yourself and your teammates,” he said. “I was always answering all the questions, now I’m the one doing all the asking.”

And that’s not all…

After wrapping up his final playing season in Denver in ‘01, he delved headfirst into the real estate industry, a field that he has been dabbling in for several years.

Currently working as commercial associate in the investment sales group of Colliers Abood Wood-Fay in Coral Gables, Crotty’s very focused on building on his real estate success.

Like many former professional basketball players, making the transition into retirement was a difficult one, which is why he stresses the importance of education and preparedness.

“It’s tough – nobody wants to admit it’s time to retire. But after having five knee surgeries, I realized I couldn’t do it night in and night out,” he said. “I had always planned for it and I encourage other active players to do the same. No matter how much money you have, you sill need to be able to educate yourself on the opportunities that are out there.”

Crotty takes an active role in emphasizing the importance of education to children, and has reached thousands through his basketball camps in Coral Gables and also in his hometown of New Jersey for the past 13 years.

“My main message to these kids is ‘you always have a chance at whatever you do if you work hard it.’ I teach kids how to use sports to better their lives, whether it is through a college scholarship or gaining life experiences.”

There are no idle moments for this husband and father of two, and with his motivation and drive to work hard and improve himself, it is certainly full-speed ahead…on and off the court.

Did You Know John Crotty:

• Played for seven different NBA teams, including Miami, Utah, Cleveland, Portland, Seattle, Detroit and Denver.
• Holds the University of Virginia record for average assists.
• Graduated with a degree in history.
• Spends his free time surfing and boating.
• Coaches his daughters’ (ages 8 and 6) basketball and soccer teams.
• Works out regularly and maintains a healthy diet.

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